💳Money & Payments

The Reality of Paying in China

China is largely cashless. Many restaurants, shops, and even markets only accept mobile payments. The good news: as of 2024–2026, foreigners can now use Alipay and WeChat Pay with foreign cards.

Alipay (Recommended for Foreigners)

Download "Alipay" (International version) before arrival
Open the app → go to "International Edition" mode
Add your Visa, Mastercard, or Amex card
Scan QR codes to pay — works at most shops, restaurants, taxis, and markets

Some merchants only show a QR code for you to scan. Others will scan your payment QR code. Both work with Alipay.

WeChat Pay

WeChat Pay also accepts foreign cards. Setup:

Open WeChat → Me → Services → Wallet
Add card → select your country and card type

Some merchants accept WeChat Pay only, so having both set up is ideal.

Cash (RMB — Chinese Yuan)

Still needed for: some rural areas, older markets, small street food stalls, temple entrance fees.

Get RMB from airport ATMs on arrival (better rates than currency exchange desks)
HSBC, Citibank, and UnionPay ATMs are most reliable for foreign cards
Daily withdrawal limit: usually 2,000–3,000 RMB per transaction
Keep some small bills (10, 20 RMB) for markets and taxis

Credit Cards at Hotels and Malls

Major international hotels and shopping malls accept Visa and Mastercard directly. Everywhere else, assume you need Alipay or WeChat Pay.

Tell your bank you're traveling to China before you go, or your card may be blocked for suspicious activity.

Quick Reference

1 USD

≈ 7.2 RMB

1 EUR

≈ 7.8 RMB

1 GBP

≈ 9.1 RMB

Check current rate before you go